Manali, April 4: A sudden shift in weather patterns has brought fresh snowfall to the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti and heavy rain to Mandi and Kullu, causing a sharp decline in regional temperatures. The precipitation, which began late yesterday evening, has blanketed the Lahaul Valley and forced residents in lower districts to return to winter attire. Authorities confirmed that the strategically vital Darcha-Shinku La-Padum road, connecting Himachal Pradesh to the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh, remains blocked due to significant snow accumulation on the Lahaul side.
The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) stated that 155 roads across Lahaul-Spiti are currently disrupted. While the Border Roads Organisation and the Public Works Department have deployed teams for snow clearing, officials maintained that restoration progress is dictated by the ongoing inclement weather. Residents in the valley were seen clearing rooftops and courtyards as the harsh conditions slowed daily activities in remote areas.
The local administration affirmed that they are closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and have advised travelers to exercise extreme caution. Officials declared that the sudden return of winter-like conditions serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to abrupt environmental changes. Restoration efforts continue, though a full resumption of vehicular movement depends on a stabilizing weather forecast.
